DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard UXBRIDGE: The next stage in the Countryside Preserve Pond Dam saga will take place next week, as councillors debate the issue at their meeting on the morning of Monday, Oct. 7.

On August 1, heavy rain contributed to the dam being breached, ultimately leading to the pond being drained by township works department staff, and a portion of the popular trail being closed due to public safety concerns.

According to a report issued by Public Works Director Ben Kester at council’s meeting on Monday, Sept. 23, "an Environmental Assessment needs to be completed to solicit public opinion and determine the best solution to the problem."

The estimated cost of the Environmental Assessment is approximately $40,000.

While the township is expected to pay the full cost of the Environmental Assessment, the cost of a detailed design for the pond would be covered by Environment Canada’s Lake Simcoe Clean Up Fund, according to Mr. Kester’s report.

Councillors opted for more time before discussing possible solutions to the dam problem, and tabled the motion at their Sept. 23 meeting, and will re-open discussions on Monday, Oct. 7 after passing a motion from Ward 2 Councillor Pat Molloy.

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